Social Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum for students is important because helps them learn essential skills to navigate social, emotional, and academic challenges, both in school and beyond. An SEL curriculum helps students develop self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and decision-making abilities, all of which are crucial for their overall well-being and success.
The Social Emotional Learning Curriculum Committee is progressing toward MVWSD's goal of recommending a SEL curriculum for the 2025-2026 school year to the Board of Trustees. This recommendation aligns with SP2027 and direction from the Board of Trustees.
Committee: The committee includes representatives from each school, two parents, and one community member, bringing a wide range of experience and perspectives.
Recommendation: The curriculum recommendation will be evidence-based, competency-based, and focused on the whole child, with materials that reflect the diversity of students and families. It will include both print and digital supports and provide data for informed instruction and intervention.
October 2024 Update: The committee held three initial meetings this month, fostering alignment on SEL perspectives and creating a rubric for evaluating potential curricula. Members reviewed district attendance, discipline, and SEL data, along with community feedback and existing SEL research.
Using a strategy from the National Implementation Research Network (NIRN), the committee successfully narrowed down over 100 curriculum options to 27 that best meet district needs in program offerings, materials, and professional development. The list will be further narrowed after research and discussion.
January 2025 Update: SEL Curriculum Progress & Community Engagement Opportunities
The work of our Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Curriculum Committee has reached an exciting milestone. Since September 2024, this dedicated team of educators, administrators, and community members has worked tirelessly to narrow down over
100 curriculum options to just two high-quality finalists for piloting. Their focus, commitment, and collaboration have been nothing short of extraordinary, and we are so proud of the progress we’ve made.
Pilot Information
Pilot 1: Second Step curriculum pilot is in progress, January 13, 2025 through February 14, 2025, with pilot teachers providing weekly lessons. You can find sample lesson plans and activities linked here.
Pilot 2: Character Strong curriculum pilot will take place February 24, 2025 through April 4, 2025, offering another exciting opportunity for our educators to implement effective SEL lessons. You can find more information here: Elementary Middle School
We Want Your Input!
As part of our shared commitment to ensuring the best for our students, we invited the MVWSD Community (teachers, staff, families) to review and provide feedback on the pilot curricula in March during community review sessions (March 13 and 20). If you were unable to attend these sessions and are interested in reviewing the curricula, please email Karin Jinbo.
May 2025 Update
On May 8, 2025 staff brought recommendations to the Board of Trustees for SEL Curriculum adoption, data management tool, and community partnership agreement. Staff is seeking approval of:
* Adopt CharacterStrong as district SEL Curriculum
* Utilize Panorama as SEL data management tool.
* Continue partnering with Project Cornerstone.
To read more about the recommendation, click here
We are deeply grateful for the incredible efforts of the SEL Curriculum Committee and the support of our parent community. Let’s keep the momentum going as we work together to make a difference for our students!